Ingredients
Main Ingredients
The main ingredients in this delicious Easy Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce recipe are essential to its flavor and texture. Let’s break down each component:
Pasta
The choice of pasta shape is crucial in this dish. We recommend using a short, tubular-shaped pasta such as penne or macaroni. These shapes will hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Tuna
Canned tuna is an excellent source of protein and can be easily incorporated into the recipe. Look for high-quality tuna packed in oil or water to ensure the best flavor.
Tomato Sauce
A simple tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes , onion, and garlic is the perfect accompaniment to our pasta and tuna. Freshly cooked tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes can be used for this recipe.
Olive oil
This versatile ingredient is essential for sautéing our onion and garlic to create a flavorful base for our sauce. Choose a good-quality olive oil that complements the other flavors in the dish.
Salt and Pepper
- These seasonings are a must-have in any recipe, including this one. Be sure to use fresh salt and pepper for the best results.
- These key ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering Easy Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters!
Tuna canned in water (120g)
The key ingredient for this recipe, Tuna canned in water (120g), provides an essential source of protein to balance out the carbs from the pasta.
Ingredients
- Tuna canned in water (120g)
This tuna is packed in water which makes it a lower-calorie and low-fat option compared to oil-packed tuna. It’s also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are important for heart health.
The canned tuna has already been cooked and drained, making it a convenient ingredient to incorporate into this Easy Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce Recipe.
Pasta of your choice (200g, e.g., spaghetti or penne)
To prepare a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pasta of your choice: We recommend using either spaghetti or penne for this recipe.
- 200g (7 oz) of pasta
For the tomato sauce:
- Tomato paste
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the tuna:
- Canned tuna in water or oil (drained and flaked)
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
To make this recipe more flavorful, consider adding some other ingredients, such as:
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for added richness and umami flavor)
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Canned Tomato Sauce
The ingredients for this recipe are fundamental to bringing together the flavors and textures that make this dish enjoyable.
Canned Tomato Sauce
This key ingredient in our recipe provides a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from lycopene, which is an essential nutrient found in tomatoes.
Types of Canned Tomato Sauce
- Crushed Tomatoes: These have a texture that’s between diced and pureed. They work well for dishes where you want to maintain some texture but also have the convenience of canned tomatoes.
- Pureed Tomatoes: As the name suggests, these are smooth and perfect for making sauces where you don’t want any chunkiness at all.
Ingredients Needed
In our Easy Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce recipe, we need:
- Canned Tomato Sauce (14.5 oz can): This is the base of our tomato sauce, providing a rich flavor.
- Pasta of Your Choice: We recommend using short shapes like penne or shells to hold onto the sauce well.
- Canned Tuna (14.75 oz can): Make sure it’s in water and drained of excess moisture to prevent a watery sauce.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing garlic and onions for added depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Minced for sautéing with olive oil to add a pungent aroma to the dish.
- Onion: Chopped for sautéing, adding a sweet and savory taste that complements the other flavors.
Optional Ingredients
You can customize your Easy Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce recipe to suit your taste preferences by including or excluding any of these ingredients:
- Red Pepper Flakes: For an extra kick of heat.
- Basil: Chopped for adding a fresh, herbal flavor.
- Oregano: Dried or fresh, for its earthy, slightly bitter taste that pairs well with tomato sauce.
Remember to adjust the amount of salt according to your personal taste preferences and the type of pasta used in the recipe.
One 14oz can of crushed tomatoes
A can of crushed tomatoes is an essential ingredient in this recipe for easy pasta with tuna and tomato sauce. A 14oz can of crushed tomatoes provides a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to several health benefits.
When selecting a can of crushed tomatoes, it’s best to choose a product that is low in sodium and added sugars. Some brands may also offer organic or non-GMO options for those who prioritize these characteristics.
Canned crushed tomatoes are made from fresh tomatoes that have been cooked down into a smooth, saucy consistency. The canning process helps to preserve the nutrients and flavor of the tomatoes, making them a convenient ingredient to use in cooking.
One 14oz can of crushed tomatoes typically contains about 2 cups of sauce. This amount is enough to serve four people as a main course or six people as an appetizer or side dish.
To use crushed tomatoes in this recipe for easy pasta with tuna and tomato sauce, simply drain the liquid from the can and add the tomatoes to the pot along with the canned tuna, olive oil, garlic, and dried basil. The resulting sauce is a flavorful and nutritious combination of protein and vegetables that pairs perfectly with cooked pasta.
The versatility of crushed tomatoes makes them a staple ingredient in many Italian-inspired recipes. They can be used to make pizza sauce, pasta sauces, soups, stews, and even as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Two cloves of garlic, minced
- In this easy pasta recipe, we use two essential ingredients to bring out the flavor of our tomato sauce: garlic and onion.
- The first key ingredient is two cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- To prepare the garlic for our recipe, simply peel two cloves of garlic and chop or mince them using a chef’s knife or food processor.
- This will help to break down the cell walls of the garlic and release its flavorful compounds, allowing them to mix evenly with other ingredients in the sauce.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to mince two cloves of garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves using a vegetable peeler or by crushing them gently with the side of your knife blade.
- Place one clove of garlic flat-side down and chop it into small pieces, making sure not to crush it too much.
- Repeat this process for the second clove of garlic.
Alternatively, you can use a food processor or microplane grater to quickly mince the garlic.
The minced garlic will then be added to our pan with olive oil and sautéed until fragrant before being mixed into our tomato sauce.
This is where the magic happens, as the flavors of the garlic combine with the other ingredients in the recipe to create a deliciously savory and slightly sweet sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Instructions
Preparation
To prepare this delicious and easy pasta recipe with tuna and tomato sauce, it’s essential to have all the necessary ingredients and tools readily available.
Start by gathering the following key components:
- 8 ounces of Pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 cans of Tuna in Water (drained and flaked)
- 1 can of Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried Basalmic Vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Before commencing the preparation process, ensure that your kitchen is clean and all utensils are washed thoroughly.
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, Basalmic Vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the flaked tuna to the pan and stir gently to combine with the tomato sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tuna is heated through.
- While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add the cooked tomato-tuna sauce to the pasta and toss everything together to combine. Season with additional salt, pepper, or Basalmic Vinegar if needed.
- Transfer the delicious pasta dish to a serving plate and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
The first step in cooking a delicious and easy pasta dish with tuna and tomato sauce is to cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.
Al dente is an Italian culinary term that means “to the tooth” or “firm to the bite,” indicating that the pasta should be cooked just until it still has some firmness in the center, but not hard. This ensures that the pasta remains tender and retains its flavor.
To achieve this perfect texture, follow the package instructions for cooking time and water ratio. Generally, most pasta types require 4-6 cups of water per pound of pasta, and cooking time ranges from 8 to 12 minutes or more, depending on the specific type of pasta being cooked.
While waiting for the pasta to cook, heat a saucepan over medium heat with some olive oil. Add chopped onions, garlic, and a pinch of salt to sauté until softened. Then, add canned crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the pasta is cooked according to package instructions, drain it in a colander under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This helps to remove excess starch from the pasta, which makes it easier to dress with sauces and prevents overcooking.
Finally, set aside the cooked pasta while preparing the tuna and tomato sauce mixture, allowing both components to come together for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Mince two cloves of garlic and sauté them in a pan with some olive oil until fragrant.
To prepare a delicious and flavorful pasta dish, it’s essential to start with proper instructions on how to mince garlic. Mince two cloves of garlic by placing them on a cutting board and using a chef’s knife to chop them into fine, even pieces.
Begin by holding the knife at a 45-degree angle and chopping the garlic clove in a gentle, rocking motion, applying minimal pressure. This will help prevent crushing or bruising the garlic cloves.
Continue chopping until you reach the desired consistency of minced garlic. For this recipe, aim for small pieces that are about 1/8 inch (3 mm) in size. Once minced, transfer the garlic to a pan and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Allow the olive oil to warm up for about 2-3 minutes before adding the minced garlic. Stir constantly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
As the garlic begins to sizzle and release its fragrant aroma, continue sautéing for another minute or until it reaches a light golden brown color. This step is crucial in releasing the natural sugars and flavors of the garlic, which will enhance the overall taste of your pasta dish.
Once the garlic has reached the desired level of browning, remove it from heat immediately to prevent burning. The fragrant aroma of sautéed garlic will now fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to proceed with cooking the pasta and preparing the rest of the recipe.
Tips and Variations
Additional Flavor
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier sauce, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time.
- To make it more substantial, toss in some cooked vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or broccoli.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a minced jalapeño pepper.
- For a Mediterranean twist, add 1/4 cup of chopped Kalamata olives and 1/4 cup of artichoke hearts.
- You can also use canned salmon or sardines in place of tuna for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as crushed San Marzano tomatoes or diced fresh tomatoes.
- To add some freshness, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
- For a more intense tomato flavor, use 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes and reduce the amount of broth to 1/4 cup.
- You can also roast the garlic before mincing it for added depth of flavor.
- Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the saucepan with the tomato sauce, using about 2 cups of water or broth and bringing it to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering until the pasta is al dente.
- Add some protein power by tossing in cooked chicken, turkey bacon, or shrimp at the end of cooking time.
- For a vegan version, replace tuna with canned chickpeas or edamame and use a vegetable broth instead of fish stock.
- Make ahead: Cook pasta up to 2 days in advance. Reheat with sauce and add protein if desired.
- Refrigerate cooked pasta and sauce for up to 3 days, then reheat when needed.
Add a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano to the tomato sauce for extra flavor.
The classic combination of pasta, tuna, and tomato sauce is a staple in many Italian households. However, there are several ways to add some excitement to this traditional dish and make it even more delicious. One tip to enhance the flavor of the tomato sauce is to add a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano.
This addition may seem simple, but it can greatly impact the overall taste of the dish. The subtle earthy flavor of dried herbs pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of tuna and tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.
For those who prefer a bit more heat in their meal, adding some red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce can be an excellent variation. This spicy kick will add depth and excitement to the dish, making it perfect for those who enjoy a little excitement with their meals.
Anchovies are another ingredient that can be used to add a salty, umami flavor to the tomato sauce. While some people may not like anchovies due to their strong flavor, they can actually enhance the overall taste of the dish and create a rich, savory experience.
For those who want to try something a bit more exotic, adding some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to the tomato sauce can add a bright, refreshing flavor. This variation is perfect for spring and summer meals when a light, herbaceous flavor is desired.
Finally, experimenting with different types of pasta can also be a great way to mix things up. For example, using pappardelle or wide egg noodles can create a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for cold winter nights.
These are just a few ideas for adding some excitement to the classic combination of pasta, tuna, and tomato sauce. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to find your own unique twist on this beloved dish!
Try using other types of canned tomatoes, such as diced or crushed with garlic.
One of the beautiful things about this easy pasta recipe with tuna and tomato sauce is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Try using other types of canned tomatoes, such as diced or crushed with garlic, for a deeper flavor profile. Diced tomatoes will give you a chunkier texture, while crushed tomatoes with garlic will add an aromatic punch to the sauce.
You can also experiment with different flavors by adding herbs like dried oregano, basil, or bay leaves to the tomato sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a salty depth to the dish.
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the tuna and add roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers to the pasta. This will not only reduce the calorie count but also increase the nutrient density of the meal.
Another variation is to use different types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle, to change the texture and presentation of the dish. You can also try using whole wheat pasta for a nutty flavor and higher fiber content.
To make this recipe more substantial, add some protein-rich ingredients like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta along with the tuna. This will not only increase the satiety factor but also provide a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
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